St. Severin

Nestled in the charming district of Hermülheim in Hürth, North Rhine-Westphalia, St. Severin stands as a testament to centuries of history, architectural evolution, and community spirit. This Roman Catholic parish church is not just a place of worship but a historical landmark that narrates the tale of Hermülheim's past, from its ancient roots to its modern-day significance.

The Historical Roots of St. Severin

Hermülheim is steeped in history, with evidence of Roman graves and temple remnants suggesting the presence of a villa rustica in the area. The name Hermülheim itself hints at a settlement that dates back to the Frankish land acquisitions, potentially as early as the 9th century. The earliest church, a private chapel near the Hermülheim castle gate, was first mentioned in a document in 1214, although its origins likely predate the 10th century.

The church's dedication to Saint Severin is believed to have been established after the 9th century, adding a layer of religious and cultural significance. By 1256, the church was explicitly mentioned in a property exchange agreement involving Dietrich von Richemulenheim and the Teutonic Order. The order managed the church's pastoral care until its dissolution in the early 19th century.

The Transformation Over Centuries

Initially, St. Severin was a simple half-timbered church. However, between 1264 and 1292, a stone structure was erected, reflecting the architectural styles of the time. This single-nave church saw several modifications, including the extension of the nave in the late Gothic period. Despite its modest size, the church was a central part of the community, surrounded by a cemetery.

By the 17th century, the church was reported to be in poor condition, prompting discussions about constructing a larger, more centrally located church. The old structure served the community until 1888, after which it was demolished to make way for a new building.

The Neo-Gothic Marvel

In 1860, plans for a new church began to take shape, thanks to generous donations from the local community. Notably, Josef Reifferscheidt, the miller of Herrenmühle, bequeathed his estate to the church, and the Klemmer family contributed significantly to the construction costs. The renowned diocesan architect Franz Schmitz, later the master builder of Strasbourg Cathedral, was commissioned to design the new church in the early Gothic style of historicism.

Completed in 1888, the new St. Severin church featured a 33.5-meter-long structure with two short side aisles and a prominent hexagonal tower, originally 51 meters high. The church's distinctive feature was its hexagonal central section with a tent-like dome, crowned by a high spire. This architectural gem quickly became a beloved landmark, affectionately known as the Hermülheimer Dom by the locals.

War and Reconstruction

Tragically, the neo-Gothic church suffered severe damage during World War II. Although it was partially restored by 1947, the growing population and changing tastes called for further modifications. By the 1960s, the church was deemed unfortunate in design, leading to a significant renovation project led by the renowned Cologne architect Karl Band.

The reconstruction, completed in 1968, retained the tower, three bays of the nave, and the former choir, which was converted into a chapel. Band added a rectangular structure with a simple beam ceiling, creating a harmonious blend of old and new architectural elements. The altar, crafted from green-gray Cipollino marble by Heinz Gernot, became the focal point of the renewed church.

Musical Heritage

St. Severin's musical heritage is equally impressive, with two notable organs gracing its interior. The Kreienbrink organ, installed in 1968, features 25 registers and has been meticulously maintained and restored over the years. Additionally, a smaller Walcker organ, originally from St. Ursula in Kalscheuren, serves as a choir organ and is used for weekday services.

The Bells of St. Severin

The church's bell history is rich and varied. The original bells, dating back to 1663, were replaced by three new bells in 1930. However, these were lost during World War II. In 1959, a new set of five bronze bells was cast by the Petit & Gebr. Edelbrock foundry, with a sixth bell added in 2008, making St. Severin's bell ensemble the most diverse in the city.

Artistic Treasures

Inside St. Severin, visitors can admire a valuable Pietà attributed to Master Tilman, a renowned Cologne sculptor from the late 15th century. The church also houses a Gothic crucifixion group, featuring expressive figures of Mary, Christ, and John, believed to have been created between 1450 and 1500. These artistic treasures, along with stained-glass windows by Wilhelm Schmitz-Steinkrüger, add to the church's cultural and historical significance.

St. Severin in Hürth is more than just a church; it is a beacon of history, art, and community. Its journey from a modest chapel to a neo-Gothic marvel, and finally to its modern form, reflects the resilience and spirit of Hermülheim's people. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to St. Severin promises a rich and rewarding experience.